Easter event brings eggs, entertainment

BURBANK ? Johnny Carson Park will ring with enthusiasm and spring cheer on Saturday, when the city holds its eighth annual "Easter Eggs-plosion of Fun."

The event is a joint effort between the Burbank Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department and Radio Disney 1110 AM, which provides the afternoon's entertainment.

"It's a complete day of fun and activities," said Natalie Eig, Radio Disney's station manager.

The event kicks off at 10 a.m. with an Easter egg hunt geared toward children preschool age to 14. Parents are encouraged to arrive early because the hunt will begin promptly at the top of the hour, said Chris Smith in the Parks and Recreation Department said.

Groups will entertain crowds during the day, with performances from Latino music group "Chica," pop solo artists Katelyn Tarver and Kristy Frank and the Mystic Force Power Rangers. A dance troupe from the Los Angeles Sparks women's basketball team will perform and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles will also make an appearance.

Organizers have planned an Easter Bonnet Parade, where young participants will have the chance to show off seasonal hats they make at the event. Concessions, game booths, arcade games, face painting, bounce houses and other play activities will be provided. Pictures with the Easter Bunny will be available for $4, Eig said. The Burbank Animal Shelter will be on hand, offering animals for adoption.

The Burbank Police Department will help out, along with Radio Disney and Parks and Recreation staff, and volunteers from the Burbank High School Key Club.

The event is expected to attract more than 6,000 people, Smith said. Admission is free and festivities come to an end at 1 p.m.

For more information about the "Easter Eggs-plosion of Fun," call the Burbank Parks and Recreation Department at (818) 238-5300.